New York State Senatehttp://www.nysenate.gov/taxonomy/term/526/all?type=All
enChanukah is the celebration of Miracles!http://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/chanukah-celebration-miracles
<p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">"Chanukah is the celebration of miracles, a reminder that all things are possible," Senator Parker said. &nbsp;"As you celebrate the spirit of Chanukah with friends and family, I wish you health, happiness and good fortune."</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">The holiday celebrates a legendary victory of the Maccabees, a band of Jews, over a Greek army that occupied the Holy Land. &nbsp;After the battle, the victorious Maccabees found only a one day supply of oil in the temple to light the lamps. &nbsp;But the oil burned miraculously for eight days, the story says.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Wishing you a festival of lights sparkling with fun and lit up with joy!"</span></p>
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<a href="/senator/kevin-s-parker">Kevin S. Parker</a> </div>
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<span class="date-display-single">Wed, 12/17/2014</span> </div>
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<p>Thirty-five employers conducted more than 800 interviews, hired 16 applicants on the spot and scheduled close to another 200 meetings with candidates they met at a job fair Thursday in Elmhurst sponsored by State Senator Jose Peralta in conjunction with Queens Center.</p>
<p>“We were able to help some people still struggling to make ends meet on the heels of the Great Recession,” said Senator Peralta.&nbsp; “From past experience, I expect that a number of others will also end up getting offers in the near future as a result of the interviews they scheduled and contacts they made at the job fair.”</p>
<p>More than 1,000 job seekers turned out for the fair, held at the Queens Center.&nbsp; In addition to employers such as the Coca Cola Company, Time Warner Cable and United Parcel Service, the New York State Department of Labor and non-profit organizations were on hand to provide career counseling, as well résumé writing and interview preparation advice.</p>
<p>The fair was held at the Food Court, located on the lower level of the JC Penney wing of the Queens Center.</p>
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<span class="date-display-single">Mon, 07/14/2014</span> </div>
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Economic DevelopmentJob Training or TradesLaborMWBE (Division of Minority and Women Business Development)UnemploymentVolunteers/ingMon, 14 Jul 2014 19:23:27 +0000Emely Paez242246 at http://www.nysenate.govLegislative Notebook: State Initiatives of Interest to Veteranshttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/legislative-notebook-state-initiatives-interest-veterans
<p>Here is a partial listing of bills I have supported this session to aid New York’s former servicemen and servicewomen. These initiatives will now go to Governor Cuomo for final action.</p>
<p>-- Legislation I co-sponsored was passed by both houses (S.7839, first introduced as S.4714)) to extend the Military Service Credit Law of 2000 to all veterans who have served in the military. Right now, public employees who served in the armed forces may purchase up to three years of pension credit only if their military service occurred during specified conflicts. This measure will expand this opportunity to public employee veterans who also served their country in peacetime.</p>
<p>-- A bill was approved (S.5955) to make it clear that veterans should not be charged an additional fee if they want to receive a new driver’s license or non-driver identification card that includes a notation of their veteran status. Specifically, the measure would waive the $12.50 photo fee.</p>
<p>-- Legislation was passed by both houses (S.592) that would increase the exemption a veteran may receive on eligible real property from $5,000 to $7,500 of the assessed value. By updating the original law, which was enacted more than two decades ago, this initiative would help to make the exemption more meaningful for veterans in terms of today’s dollars.</p>
<p>-- A bill was approved by the Senate and Assembly (S.6685) which would make information about post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury and other brain-related injuries more available to veterans and their families through the Veterans Health Care Information Program. In addition, the legislation would require the NYS Department of Corrections to report annually to the Legislature regarding the number and population of veterans who are incarcerated in local and state facilities, thereby providing information that may be used to better aid imprisoned veterans and help to prevent criminal behavior.</p>
<p>-- A technical amendment (S.4819) was approved to correct an error in a 2005 state law providing service credit for those public employees who were called to active military duty in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The earlier law inadvertently omitted members of the New York City retirement systems.</p>
<p>-- In an effort to help military families who are often relocated throughout the course of their service, legislation (S.6887) was passed by the Senate and Assembly to make it easier for the children of military families to transition into New York State schools; enable veterans who are attending New York colleges and universities under the federal GI bill to qualify for the in-state tuition rate; reform the supplemental burial allowance for veteran families whose loved ones passed away outside of a combat zone; and allow the State Department of State to accept out-of-state licenses in real estate and some other occupations that were issued to members of military families.</p>
<p>-- The Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Act, which has already been signed into law (Chapter 22), is a program that will enable companies owned by service-disabled veterans to more easily compete for lucrative state goods and service contracts. The law sets a goal of providing six percent of state contracts to eligible veteran-owned businesses and establishes a new division within the State Office of General Services (OGS) to oversee and administer the program. Last year we enacted incentives for businesses to hire veterans, and this law breaks new ground in providing new job and economic opportunities for our former armed forces members.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15.555556297302246px; line-height: 1;">2014-2015 New York State Budget Highlights for Veterans &amp; Their Families</span></p>
<p>-- Funding for NYS Division of Veterans’ Affairs counseling services is increased by $700,000 over the Governor’s initial proposal to $2.7 million. This will help to ensure that veterans reaching out to the DVA for help receive access to all of the services and programs they need – including job assistance, mental health and substance abuse services, information about tax breaks, and many other types of aid.</p>
<p>-- A new Veteran Peer-to-Peer support and counseling pilot program is being funded through the State Office of Mental Health (OMH) at $1.9 million. The initiative will pair veterans with other former servicemen and servicewomen who may be more attuned than civilians to the challenges facing fellow members of the armed forces.</p>
<p>-- Veterans will now be included as participants in the state’s entrepreneurial support centers, which will enable former servicemen and servicewomen seeking to start their own businesses to be eligible to apply for Entrepreneurial Assistance Program (EAP) grants and technical help.</p>
<p>-- The income eligibility limit for Gold Star parents to receive an annual annuity of $500 is being lifted. Gold Star parents are those mothers and fathers who lost a son or daughter in active duty in the Armed Forces during a time of war. Annuity recipients must be New York State residents and applications may be made to the State Division of Veterans’ Affairs.</p>
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<span class="date-display-single">Thu, 06/26/2014</span> </div>
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MiscellaneousAbductionAbsentee VotingAdoptionAgenciesAgingAgricultureAIDS/HIVAlcoholAppellateArsonArts and CultureAttorney GeneralAuthorities and CommissionsBailoutsBankruptcyBanksBudgetBudgetBuilding or InspectionsCampaign FinanceCensusChild MolestationChildrenCitiesCivilCivil RightsCivil Service and PensionsClimate ChangeCoast GuardCodesCommunity DevelopmentCommunity ReinvestmentCongressConstituents CornerConstructionConsumer ProtectionContinuing EducationControlled SubstancesCorporationsCorrectionalCourtsCreditCrimeCriminalCUNY (City University of New York)DairyDeath PenaltyDeficitDevelopmental DisabilitiesDisabilityDomestic ViolenceDrugsDrunk DrivingEarth DayEarthquakesEconomic DevelopmentEducationElectionsElectricityEmergency Services or FEMAEnergyEnergy for Small BusinessEnvironmentEPIC (Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program)ESDC (Empire State Development Corporation)EthicsExecutiveFamiliesFamilyFederal ProgramsFederal StimulusFinanceFinancial AidFirefightersForeclosureFoster CareGeneralGoing GreenGovernment OperationsGreen CardsGreen JobsGun ControlHAVA (Help America Vote Act)Hazardous WasteHazardsHealthHealth CareHeatingHigher EducationHistorical PreservationHomeland SecurityHospitalsHospitalsHousingHousingHuman RightsHurricanesImmigrationInitiatives & ReferendumsInsuranceInsurance FraudInvestigationsJob Training or TradesJobs & EmploymentJudges or JudicialJudiciaryJury Duty or SelectionJuvenile Criminal JusticeLaborLandmarksLawLegal Aid or Legal ServicesLegislatureLivestockLoansLocal GovernmentMen's HealthMental HealthMilitaryMilitary AffairsMinimum WageMTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority)Murder or HomicideMWBE (Division of Minority and Women Business Development)National DisastersNational GuardNew York CityNew York State Power AuthorityNuclearNutritionNYC Housing Development CorporationOrganic FarmingOSHAPANYNJ (Port Authority of New York and New Jersey)ParamedicsPermitsPolicePollutionPredatory LendingPrescribed drugs or PrescriptionsPrimariesRacing and WageringRapeRedistrictingRenewable EnergySafe Sex or Contraceptives/ionSenior CentersSeniorsSmall BusinessSolarSpecial EducationSpecial ElectionsStormsSUNY (State University of New York)SupremeSurplusSurrogateSurrogateTerrorismThruway AuthorityTobaccoTowns or CountiesTroopsUnemploymentUnionsVeteransVictimsVillagesViolationsVolunteers/ingVoter ProtectionVoter RegistrationWaterWindWomenWomen's HealthWorkers Comp.YouthThu, 26 Jun 2014 18:13:37 +0000Sandy Stewart240846 at http://www.nysenate.govSenator Bonacic Congratulates Gerald and Rosemary Skoda, Long Time Sullivan County Volunteershttp://www.nysenate.gov/photos/2014/jun/02/senator-bonacic-congratulates-gerald-and-rosemary-skoda-long-time-sullivan-county
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<p>Senator Bonacic and his wife, Pat Bonacic, congratulate Gerald and Rosemary Skoda at a brunch to honor their long time service to charitable organizations in Sullivan County. &nbsp;Senator Bonacic presented the Skodas with a New York State Senate Resolution at the event.</p>
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Volunteers/ingMon, 02 Jun 2014 13:53:28 +0000Andrew Winchell236546 at http://www.nysenate.govO'Mara praises this weekend's RecruitNY campaign to boost local volunteer firefighter, EMT ranks ~ find out if a department near you is holding an Open Househttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/omara-praises-weekends-recruitny-campaign-boost-local-volunteer-firefighter-emt-ranks-
<p><strong>Elmira, N.Y., April 22—</strong><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">State Senator Tom O’Mara (R-C, Big Flats) reminded area residents today that a number of the region’s volunteer fire departments will hold open houses this weekend as part of “RecruitNY,” a statewide public awareness initiative sponsored by the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) and others to encourage the recruitment of local volunteer firefighters and EMTs.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">The annual event, which takes place this year on April 26-27, is coordinated by FASNY in partnership with the state Association of Fire Districts, Association of Fire Chiefs, Volunteer Fire Police Association and the County Fire Coordinators’ Association.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">"The challenge of recruiting volunteer firefighters and EMTs, especially in our rural, upstate communities, deserves all of the attention it gets. &nbsp;Keeping our corps of emergency services volunteers strong has to be a statewide priority. &nbsp;Our volunteer fire departments have long been the foundation of public safety and security, and the center of community service and civic pride, and we can’t risk their decline,” said O’Mara. &nbsp;“It’s a challenge that we need to keep working on and raising awareness about. &nbsp;RecruitNY sounds the alarm and accomplishes these goals very effectively.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; text-decoration: underline;">[Read more about local open houses in the April 22nd&nbsp;<em>Corning Leader&nbsp;</em>article attached below, the&nbsp;<em>Elmira Star-Gazette</em><a style="font-size: 16px;" href="http://www.stargazette.com/article/20140423/NEWS01/304230012/Seeking-volunteer-firefighters-Recruitment-open-houses-held-weekend?nclick_check=1">&nbsp;here</a>, the <em>Chronicle-Express</em> <a href="http://www.chronicle-express.com/article/20140423/NEWS/140429832">here</a>&nbsp;and the <em>observer-review.com</em> <a href="http://www.observer-review.com/firefighters-plan-open-house-times-cms-4254">here</a>]</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">According to FASNY, the number of volunteer firefighters statewide has declined from 140,000 in the early 1990s to less than 90,000 today. &nbsp;Volunteer emergency medical technicians (EMTs) experienced a decline from more than 50,000 to 35,000 during the same period, with some rural counties experiencing as much as a 50-percent depletion of their EMT ranks.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">FASNY has also estimated that it would cost local taxpayers more than $5 billion annually to replace volunteers with paid fire and ambulance services. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">O’Mara, who together with local state Assemblymen Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) and Chris Friend (R-Big Flats) continues to sponsor legislation to address the challenge, praised the RecruitNY effort. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">For a full list of fire departments locally and statewide scheduled to hold a RecruitNY Open House this weekend, visit <a href="http://recruitny.org/">www.recruitny.org</a>.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">Anyone interested in finding out if a RecruitNY Open House is being held in their community should contact their local department using the department's non-emergency contact number.&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; white-space: pre;"> </span></p>
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Volunteers/ingTue, 22 Apr 2014 20:06:59 +0000James Meddleton230376 at http://www.nysenate.govYates County fire, EMS volunteers honoredhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/yates-county-fire-ems-volunteers-honored
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">Yates County Emergency Services recently honored many of the local volunteers who contribute thousands of hours of service to communities across &nbsp;the county. &nbsp;In fact, they paid tribute to a total of 710 volunteers who gave 8,484 hours of training and service. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">C</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">ongratulations -- and thank you -- to all of this year's honorees and special award recipients.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">Read more in <em>The Chronicle-Express</em>, <a href="http://www.chronicle-express.com/article/20140416/NEWS/140419688">"Yates County Fire, EMS volunteers honored for training and service"</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">And in the <em>observer-review.com</em>, <a href="http://www.observer-review.com/photo-gallery-yates-county-honors-emergency-responders-cms-4252">"Yates County honors emergency responders"</a></span></p>
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Volunteers/ingThu, 17 Apr 2014 19:51:11 +0000James Meddleton229926 at http://www.nysenate.govThank you!http://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/thank-you
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">Thank you to all of the thousands of volunteers throughout the Southern&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">Tier and Finger Lakes regions. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">What a difference you make&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">to the quality of our communities, and in so many individual&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">lives.&nbsp;</span></p>
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Volunteers/ingTue, 08 Apr 2014 17:01:11 +0000James Meddleton228756 at http://www.nysenate.govSenator Bonacic Congratulates Port Jervis' Eagle Scout, Aaron Aumickhttp://www.nysenate.gov/photos/2014/mar/25/senator-bonacic-congratulates-port-jervis-eagle-scout-aaron-aumick
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">Senator Bonacic congratulates Eagle Scout, Aaron Aumick&nbsp;from Port Jervis Troop 173 on his great achievement.&nbsp; For his project, Aumick erected two monuments in the Port Jervis Orange Square Veterans Park, in honor of the Veterans from both World War II and the Vietnam War. &nbsp;The Senator also presented Aaron with a Senate&nbsp;Legislative&nbsp;Resolution in recognition of this prestigious Eagle Scout rank.</span></p>
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Volunteers/ingTue, 25 Mar 2014 14:04:44 +0000Andrew Winchell226436 at http://www.nysenate.govSenator Lee Zeldin Honors Nilda Alvarezhttp://www.nysenate.gov/photos/2013/nov/27/senator-lee-zeldin-honors-nilda-alvarez
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; color: black;">This past Saturday, November 23, 2013, Senator Lee Zeldin (R, C, I—Shirley) attended the Pronto Food Pantry Dedication in Honor of Nilda Alvarez.</span><strong><span style="font-family: &quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"></span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; color: black;">Pronto of Long Island is a non-profit, community outreach center that provides food, clothing, and support to those in need in Brentwood, Bay Shore, Central Islip and the neighboring communities.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; color: black;">Senator Zeldin is pictured above presenting a NYS Senate Proclamation to Belinda Alvarez-Groneman, honoring her late mother, Nilda Alvarez, for her hard work and dedication to the Pronto mission of feeding the poor.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; color: black;">“With the holidays approaching, it is especially important to recognize our local organizations, like Pronto, for the good that they do to better our communities,” said Senator Zeldin. “I was moved by the dedication of the organization’s volunteers and I was proud to honor Nilda, for her relentless devotion to Pronto’s mission. Nilda’s legacy should serve as an inspiration to the rest of us this holiday season, to reach out where we can and make a difference in the lives of our neighbors.”</span></p>
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Community DevelopmentVolunteers/ingWed, 27 Nov 2013 16:04:51 +0000Kara Cumoletti212646 at http://www.nysenate.govFormer Sheridan Fire Chief and Commissioner Ronald J. Keddie to be Added to New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorialhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/former-sheridan-fire-chief-and-commissioner-ronald-j-keddie-be-added-new-york-state-fa
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>For Release</strong>: Immediate, October 4, 2013</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Nine Firefighters To Be Posthumously Honored in Memorial Ceremony Held in Albany</em></p>
<p>ALBANY - Recognizing his sacrifice and a lifetime of service on behalf of his neighbors and community, Sheridan firefighter Ronald J. Keddie and the names of eight other firefighters from across the state who made the ultimate sacrifice will be unveiled on the New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial on Tuesday, October 8 in Albany.</p>
<p>The memorial at Albany’s Empire State Plaza was first dedicated in 1998 to commemorate the heroism and valor of our fallen firefighters. Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I - Olean) attended that long overdue inaugural ceremony establishing the memorial, and will again be in attendance at next Tuesday’s ceremony.</p>
<p>When created in 1998, the Fallen Firefighters Memorial was given a prominent location on the Empire State Plaza where it would be accessible to all. The central plaza of the memorial consists of grey and red bricks forming a Maltese Cross with a cast bronze sculpture sitting at its center in front of a granite wall bearing the names of the fallen. The emotionally-charged and moving sculpture depicts two firefighters carrying an injured brother firefighter to safety, poignantly symbolizing the spirit of sacrifice and fraternal service of those memorialized.</p>
<p>During National Fire Prevention Week each year, the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control engraves on the Fallen Firefighters Memorial the names of our firefighter heroes deserving of the honor, and remembers all of those whose names have already been etched into the memorial’s granite wall, which now contains 2,381 names dating all the way back to 1811.</p>
<p>Sheridan's own Ronald J. Keddie, a 41-year member of the Sheridan Fire Department who previously served as chief, commissioner, and president, before falling in the line of duty is now among those inspiring heroes honored for laying down their lives as firefighters.</p>
<p>“The fire service was Ron’s second family. His passion for the fire service is what got me interested in joining the Fire Department,” said Chief Keddie's wife Kathy, who has also served as a member of the Sheridan Fire Department and will be travelling to Albany for Tuesday’s ceremony, along with their son Michael, and dozens of Ron’s fellow firefighters and friends from Sheridan and throughout Chautauqua County.</p>
<p>“Ron was a personal friend, so this ceremony means a lot. His devotion to the fire service was tireless, and I would see him at every event. He was extremely involved in the community, even carrying on the family tradition of organizing the Memorial Day service in Sheridan every year to honor our fallen heroes. He personally understood as a Viet Nam veteran the horrors of war and the sacrifices that our armed forces make to protect our freedom, and he was determined to remember those who gave their lives,” said Senator Young, who is also attending the memorial ceremony.</p>
<p>“I miss seeing his smiling face, and his legacy lives on. Adding his name to the memorial will ensure that his contributions that touched the lives of so many people will never be forgotten,” said Senator Young.</p>
<p>“Ron played an incredibly important role training hundreds of volunteer firemen throughout Chautauqua County. His legacy lives on through the many lives that he touched in a positive manner, both directly and through the efforts of those he helped train. It is certainly appropriate that his name be added to the firefighting heroes honored in Albany. Hopefully, his outstanding example of service will continue to inspire others to even greater service.,” said Assemblyman Andrew Goodell (R,C-Chautauqua).</p>
<p>“I remember meeting Ron at the fire department when I was about eight years old and started marching in local parades with the department’s banner. He was a great guy and a tremendous member of not only our department, but the entire county-wide community of fire services in Chautauqua County. From his work as a State Fire Instructor, his role with the Chautauqua County Office of Emergency Services, and his service as commissioner and past chief with our department, Ron’s service was far-reaching and left a significant impact on so many of us,” said Aaron Brinkman, current Chief of the Sheridan Fire Department.</p>
<p>Born in Silver Creek, New York, on September 16, 1947 to the late Robert and Esther (Bartlett) Keddie, Ronald L. Keddie’s life of service began early when he went to Vietnam with the United States Navy in 1967 and served until 1970, earning the National Defense Service Medal.</p>
<p>After his time in Vietnam and service with the Navy, Keddie worked professionally at American Axle and was a New York State Fire Instructor for over 30 years. He also worked at Robert Basil Chevrolet and was previously employed with IPSCO Well Drilling and Cobb Ambulance.</p>
<p>As a volunteer firefighter, Keddie served as chief for two terms, fire commissioner for three terms, and was a past president of the Sheridan Fire District. As a professional New York State Fire Instructor, he trained young firefighters across New York State and also worked at the Chautauqua Children’s Safety Education Village in Ashville where he educated children on fire prevention.</p>
<p>In addition to his professional work and service with the fire department, Keddie was a member of the Sheridan Methodist Church, Silver Creek Emergency Squad, Sheridan VFW Post No. 6390, Fourth Ward Falcon Club, First Ward Falcon Club, Kosciuszko Club, Moniuszko Club, Dom Polski Club, Dunkirk Firemen's Exempt Club, Fredonia American Legion Post No. 59, Fredonia Beaver Club, Montour Falls Moose Club, and Silver Creek Fireman's Club. Keddie was also a past member of the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club and Dunkirk Moose Club, and was the bingo caller for the Fredonia American Legion and St. Columban’s on the Lake Retirement Home.</p>
<p>Following years of service in his community through these various capacities and roles, on June 27, 2012, at the age of 64, Chief Keddie passed away from a heart attack in the Sheridan Fire Hall as he prepared to respond to an emergency motor vehicle accident.</p>
<p>“It is always a sad and solemn occasion when new names are added to this memorial, but the many friends, family, and fellow firefighters that will be coming to pay their respects and celebrate Ron’s life reveals how significantly he impacted those around him. It shows the love and respect so many people had for him. His service and the character he demonstrated throughout his life is a model to admire and aspire to emulate,” said Senator Young.</p>
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FirefightersVolunteers/ingMon, 07 Oct 2013 17:01:27 +0000Luke Slayton207391 at http://www.nysenate.govSATURDAY IS STAMP OUT HUNGER DAYhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/saturday-stamp-out-hunger-day
<p></p><P><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Georgia; COLOR: #4f4f4f; FONT-SIZE: xx-small"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Georgia; COLOR: #4f4f4f; FONT-SIZE: xx-small"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Georgia; COLOR: #4f4f4f; FONT-SIZE: xx-small"></span></span></span><br />
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<P><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">State Senator Joseph A. Griffo&nbsp;(R-C-IP, Rome)&nbsp;is encouraging everyone in our community to join this year's National Association of Letter Carrier's (NALC) <A href="http://www.nalc.org/commun/foodrive/">Stamp Out Hunger</a> food drive.</span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">&nbsp; </span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">On Saturday, May 11th, letter carriers in our communities will continue their tradition of collecting food along their normal route to help restock community food banks, pantries and shelters.</span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">&nbsp;</span></p><br />
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: left" class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">Now in its 21</span><SUP>st</sup><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px"> year, this program is designed to help local families who rely on this assistance throughout the summer and is part of what is now the largest one-day food collection in the nation.</span></p><br />
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: left" class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">According to the NALC, those wishing to participate should donate non-perishable items such as canned meat and fish, soup, bottled juice, pasta, vegetables, cereal and rice.</span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">&nbsp; </span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">The NALC asks residents to avoid donating any items that have expired or those in glass containers.</span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><br />
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: left" class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">For residents who decide to make their donation from their home, items will be collected during normal mail routes.</span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">&nbsp; </span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">All donations should be placed by the mailbox or the front door to allow for easy pickup.</span></p><br />
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: left" class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">While most post offices are participating in the program, residents are encouraged to check with their personal mail carrier.</span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">&nbsp; </span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">Residents can also visit <A class=ext href="http://www.nalc.org/commun/foodrive/" target=_blank>click here for more information</a>&nbsp;or visit the Facebook page by&nbsp;<A class=ext href="http://www.facebook.com/stampouthunger" target=_blank>clicking here</a>&nbsp;for more information on this program.</span></p><br />
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: left" class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">“This is a truly massive undertaking by the men and women of the United States Postal Service who volunteer their time to this effort in order to help people in the communities that they serve.</span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">&nbsp; </span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">They all deserve our appreciation and thanks,” said Griffo.</span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">&nbsp; </span><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 1; FONT-FAMILY: Calibri, sans-serif; FONT-SIZE: 16px">“Throughout the years, this event has provided so much hope for those in our community who are in need and we encourage everyone who is able to participate in this effort to help Stamp Out Hunger.”</span></p>
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AgenciesSocial ServicesVolunteers/ingThu, 09 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000Rayan Aguam188951 at http://www.nysenate.govThinking Of Becoming A Volunteer Firefighter?http://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/thinking-becoming-volunteer-firefighter
<p>Dear Neighbors,<br /><br />As Americans watched last week's horrific events unfold in Boston, we all witnessed countless acts of courage and selflessness.<br /><br />We saw first responders, medical personnel, and law enforcement acting with great strength and real compassion during a time of crisis. We saw neighbors helping neighbors. We saw “ordinary” people doing truly extraordinary things.<br /><br />In responding to acts of terror, natural disasters, fires or medical emergencies – our nation has a long and proud tradition of stepping-up during times of crisis.<br /><br />As a volunteer firefighter myself, I encourage you to consider becoming a part this proud tradition – by volunteering to join your local fire department.<br /><br />Unfortunately, in recent years many communities across New York have seen a decline in the number of volunteers joining local departments and emergency squads. With this in mind, many volunteer departments are hosting open houses this weekend to help recruit new volunteers.<br /><br />As part of an initiative called Recruit NY, these open houses will provide information about free training programs, responsibilities and what a typical day-in-the-life of a volunteer firefighter involves. You will also learn about some of the benefits you can receive from volunteering, like tax breaks offered by the state and some local communities.<br /><br />Just visit the Recruit NY website by <a href="http://www.recruitny.org/community.php">clicking here</a> to find an Open House at a volunteer fire department near you.<br /><br />For generations, our community has been blessed with courageous volunteer firefighters – selfless men and women who save lives and deliver care, comfort and support when tragedy strikes. <a href="http://www.recruitny.org/opendoors.php">Click here</a> for a great opportunity to give back.<br /><br />If you have any questions or comments, please call my District Office at (631) 669-9200.</p>
<p>Best regards,<br /><img src="/files/users/u1372/Boyle%20Signature.jpg" alt="" height="68" width="148" /></p>
<p>Phil Boyle<br />Member of the Senate</p>
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FirefightersVolunteers/ingWed, 24 Apr 2013 18:59:51 +0000Susan Peterson186266 at http://www.nysenate.gov ALIX’S LAW PASSES THROUGH SENATE TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEEhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/alix-s-law-passes-through-senate-transportation-committee
<p><strong><em>Bill Named After Amherst Teen Would Close Dangerous Loophole In Hit-And-Run Accidents</em></strong></p>
<p>ALBANY - The New York State Senate Transportation Committee passed “Alix’s Law” (<a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S1698A-2013">S.1698A</a>) today, sponsored by Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma). The bill would close a legal loophole and hold intoxicated drivers accountable for leaving the scene of an accident.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The legislation responds to a drunk driving accident in Amherst that killed a teenage girl. &nbsp;On July 8, 2011, 18-year-old Alix Rice was killed by a drunk driver as she road home on her longboard. &nbsp;The driver argued that he was not aware he had hit a person and he was acquitted on the felony charge of leaving the scene of an accident. &nbsp;</p>
<p>“Intoxicated drivers are arguably the most likely to flee the scene of an accident to avoid being caught driving under the influence, and due to their intoxication and diminished awareness, they are also the least likely to know if they have struck an object or a person,” said Senator Gallivan. “This bill will close a dangerous loophole in the state’s vehicle and traffic law, and give prosecutors the tools necessary to ensure that intoxicated drivers are held accountable for the tragic outcomes of their actions.” &nbsp;</p>
<p>The current law only requires drivers to report an accident when they know or have reason to know the accident resulted in an injury or property damage. &nbsp;Under this loophole, drunk drivers are able to flee the scene of an accident they caused and later claim they did not know any injury or damage occurred. &nbsp;</p>
<p>“Alix’s Law” would close that loophole by establishing a rebuttable presumption that intoxicated drivers know or have reason to know that they have been in an accident.</p>
<p>In the wake of Alix Rice's death, organizations like Rockin’ For Rice and the Alix Rice Peace Park Foundation have formed to increase awareness about the issue of drunk driving and to raise funds towards the establishment of a community skate park in recognition of Alix’s love of longboarding.</p>
<p>“This and other heartbreaking stories of drunk driving fatalities have really shined a light on a major problem we are facing in Western New York and across the State -- but it has also lit a spark,” said Senator Gallivan. “The outpouring of activism in Alix’s name has been remarkable and I hope this law will be enacted this year as fitting tribute to a young woman who’s story has inspired so many.”</p>
<p>Alix’s Law passed the New York State Senate in 2012 before being held up in the Assembly.</p>
<p>Senator Gallivan continues to conduct a petition drive to urge the Assembly to take up the measure during the 2013 legislative session. An electronic version of the petition is available on Senator Gallivan’s website at <a href="http://www.nysenate.gov/webform/tell-assembly-pass-alixs-law-now">www.nysenate.gov/webform/tell-assembly-pass-alixs-law-now.</a></p>
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<span class="date-display-single">Tue, 03/19/2013</span> </div>
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AlcoholControlled SubstancesCourtsCrimeCriminalDrunk DrivingHighwaysPrescribed drugs or PrescriptionsTransportationVolunteers/ingTue, 19 Mar 2013 19:19:09 +0000Gregory Biryla181471 at http://www.nysenate.govDepartment of Financial Services to Speek Resolution of Insurance Claims in Areas Affected by SANDYhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/department-financial-services-speek-resolution-insurance-claims-areas-affected-sandy
<p></p><P>The NYS Department of Financial Services (DFS) is setting new rules to speed the processing of insurance claims in areas affected by Storm Sandy. The new regulation reduces the amount of time an insurer can delay its decision on a claim, and requires insurers to report to the Department on how many claims it is delaying and the reasons for the delays.</p><br />
<P>Under current insurance regulations, after a homeowner provides proof of loss, insurers have 15 business days to respond with a decision. If an insurer is unable to reach a decision in that time, the insurer must provide the homeowner with a reason needed for additional time -- but doing so grants the insurer an automatic 90-day extension. There is no limit on the number of additional 90-day extensions available to an insurer. Insurers also must provide claimants notification of any documents or forms needed to complete their proof of claim within 6 business days of receipt of the claim.</p><br />
<P>In response to the complaints that insurance companies are taking too long to accept or deny Sandy-related claims, the Department is instituting the following changes.</p><br />
<P>· If an insurer is unable to make a claims decision within the allotted time, extensions are now only 30 days, not 90 days.</p><br />
<P>· Any extension letter sent to an insured must provide not just the reason for the extension, but an estimate of the date the insurer expects the decision-making process to be completed.</p><br />
<P>· Insurers must report to DFS weekly on every claim that has been extended past the initial 15 business day decision window. This report will include, among other items, the amount of the claimed loss, the reason needed for the insurer's extension, the number of extensions the insurer already has utilized, and the expected date for its decision.</p><br />
<P>· Notification to claimants of what documents and forms will be needed to complete the claim must now be provided in a written, detailed document.</p><br />
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<p></p><P>Governor Andrew M. Cuomo unveiled the proposed 2013-14Executive Budget and Management Plan that builds on two years of balanced, fiscally responsible budgeting and invests in economic development, education reform, rebuilding after Superstorm Sandy, provides support to local governments and school districts, and includes no new taxes or fees.</p><br />
<P><STRONG>Highlights of the Executive Budget:</strong></p><br />
<P>· Eliminates $1.3 billion budget gap with no new taxes or fees. The expected gap for 2013-14 was projected to be $17.4 billion prior to the last two responsible budgets.</p><br />
<P>· Holds spending increases below 2 percent for third consecutive year.</p><br />
<P>· Increases education aid by $889 million, or 4.4 percent, driving an average increase of more than $300/student per year.</p><br />
<P>· Targets economic development spending to accelerate the commercialization of new technology, launches a third round of the Regional Economic Development Councils, and markets the state’s tourism assets to bolster economic growth, especially Upstate.</p><br />
<P>· Reforms the Workers' Compensation system to save employers, local governments, and school districts more than $900 million.</p><br />
<P>· Includes nearly $974 million in savings from government redesign and cost control efforts</p><br />
<P>· Builds on the significant mandate relief enacted in 2012-13 by providing a Stable Rate Pension Contribution Option to allow local governments and school districts to immediately realize Tier VI savings.</p><br />
<P>· Raises the minimum wage from $7.25/hour to $8.75/hour.</p><br />
<P><STRONG>The Executive Budget includes:</strong></p><br />
<P>· All Funds spending of $136.5 billion in the fiscal year that begins April 1, 2013, an increase of $2.5 billion or 1.9% from 2012-13. All Funds include federal funds.</p><br />
<P>· State Operating Funds spending of $90.8 billion, an increase of $1.4 billion, or 1.6 percent. State Operating Funds exclude federal funds and long-term capital spending.</p><br />
<P><EM><SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">A Continued Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility</span></em></p><br />
<P>Governor Cuomo’s Executive Budget eliminates a budget gap of $1.3 billion in 2013-14 and further lowers the budget gaps projected in future years.</p><br />
<P>· State Spending Growth Held Under 2% For Third Consecutive Year: The Executive Budget holds annual spending growth in State Operating Funds to 1.6 percent. All Funds spending increases by 1.9 percent from the level estimated for 2012-13.</p><br />
<P>· No New Taxes or Fees: For the third consecutive year, the Executive Budget closes the budget gap with no new taxes or fees.</p><br />
<P>· $974 Million in Savings from Government Redesigns and Cost Control Efforts: As a result of initiatives spearheaded by the Governor since he took office to streamline state agency operations, government is doing more with less. The state's 2013-14 fiscal plan takes into account $974 million in savings from state agency redesign and cost-control efforts.</p><br />
<P><SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline"><EM>Economic Development</em></span></p><br />
<P>With state finances steadied, New York has the means to target new spending to grow the economy and create jobs and train students for the demands of the 21st Century workforce. The 2013-14 Executive Budget continues to invest in rebuilding New York's economy by funding new initiatives and targeting spending to focus on accelerating the commercialization of new technology to create new businesses, providing additional resources for regional economic strategies guided by the Regional Economic Development Councils, and marketing the state’s tourism assets to bolster economic growth, especially Upstate. Major initiatives include:</p><br />
<P>· Innovation Hotspots and Tech Transfer: The Executive Budget provides funding for a multi-faceted plan – outlined by the Governor in the 2013 State of the State Address – to foster the commercialization of innovative ideas from our academic institutions. The Budget provides the initial funding to launch: the Innovation Hot Spots program that will create or designate ten high-tech innovation incubators at locations affiliated with higher education institutions to encourage private-sector growth; a new $50 Million Innovation Venture Capital Fund that will provide critical seed and early-stage funding to incentivize new business formation and growth in New York State and facilitate the transition from ideas and research to marketable products; and the Innovation NY Network that will build collaboration among academics, venture capitalists, business leaders, patent lawyers and other professionals to facilitate and enhance the commercialization process.</p><br />
<P>· Next Generation Job Linkage Program: The Budget includes $5 million in performance grants to incentivize community colleges to place students in high demand jobs.</p><br />
<P>· Regional Councils: Since their launch in 2011, the Regional Economic Development Councils have leveraged close to $5 billion in total project investment, spurred by $1.5 billion in state funding. To build on this success, the Executive Budget includes $150 million for a third round of the Regional Council process.</p><br />
<P>· NY Works Economic Development Fund Program: The Executive Budget includes $165 million for capital grants that support job creation and retention and fund investments that facilitate business expansion and the attraction of new businesses.</p><br />
<P>· Market NY: To bolster Upstate economic growth, the Governor laid out in his State of the State address a multi-faceted marketing plan. The Executive Budget provides the funding needed to launch the Market NY program which includes the Taste-NY initiative and a new competitive grant program for regional tourism marketing.</p><br />
<P>· Commitment to Western New York: The Executive Budget provides $100 million in funding and Excelsior tax credits as part of the Governor’s ten-year $1 billion commitment to revitalize Buffalo’s regional economy, and $60 million as part of the state's contribution to keep the Bills in Buffalo.</p><br />
<P>· NYSUNY 2020 and NYCUNY 2020: The Executive Budget includes $55 million for a third round of NYSUNY 2020 and $55 million for a new NYCUNY 2020 program. The competitive funding will support projects that link the knowledge and innovation of higher education to regional economic revitalization.</p><br />
<P>· House NY: To finance the creation and preservation of more than 14,300 affordable housing units, the Executive Budget initiates a five year, $1 billion investment, including the transfer of the Mitchell-Lama affordable housing asset portfolio from Empire State Development to Homes and Community Renewal.</p><br />
<P>· Minimum Wage Increase: As called for in the Governor's State of the State address, the Executive Budget increases the minimum wage from $7.25 to $8.75 an hour, bringing it more in line with the cost of living. The change would take effect July 1, 2013. Over 705,000 workers would be affected and total wages would increase by an estimated $1.01 billion per year.</p><br />
<P>· Major Reform of Workers’ Compensation System: The Executive Budget includes a sweeping reform of the state's complex and inefficient Worker's Comp system that will provide $900 million in savings to employers, local governments, and school districts without affecting the rights of workers. The reform plan will allow the State Insurance Fund to release reserves no longer needed to fund future liabilities, which will be used to fund job-creating capital projects and help reduce the state's debt.</p><br />
<P>· Unemployment Insurance Reform: The Executive Budget proposes substantial reforms that will decrease costs to employers and modernize the Unemployment Insurance system. For UI claimants, reforms will increase both minimum and maximum weekly benefit rates. For employers, reforms will lower total costs, with a savings of $400 million over ten years.</p><br />
<P>· Enhance New York Film Production Tax Credit: The Executive Budget extends the Empire State film production tax credit of $420 million a year for an additional five years. Restrictions on claiming the post-production portion of the credit will be reduced and additional reporting will be required to document the effectiveness of the credit in creating jobs.</p><br />
<P>· Extend Historic Commercial Properties Rehabilitation Credit: To provide assurance to developers who are rehabilitating historic commercial property, or are considering doing so, the Budget extends the existing $5 million per project tax credit for five years (2015-2019) and makes the credit refundable beginning in tax year 2015.</p><br />
<P><EM><SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">Reimagining Government</span></em></p><br />
<P>The 2013-14 Executive Budget allows New York to take the next steps in reimagining state government, allow for even greater transparency and efficiencies, and improve citizen engagement. A new website – <a href="http://www.OpenBudget.NY.gov" title="www.OpenBudget.NY.gov">www.OpenBudget.NY.gov</a> – has been launched to provide New Yorkers with unprecedented access to information and resources regarding the state budget.</p><br />
<P>· Implement the Justice Center: The Executive Budget implements the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs by transferring Commission on Quality of Care and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities operations to the new Justice Center.</p><br />
<P>· Improve DMV Customer Service. The Executive Budget proposes a comprehensive customer service improvement initiative at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that is designed to reduce office wait times to 30 minutes or less by early 2014, increase the number of transactions serviced via technology outside of DMV offices by 50 percent, and put in place Saturday hours in certain offices.</p><br />
<P>· Continue Right-Sizing Prison Capacity: To realign the prison system’s capacity with continuing declines in the offender population and to achieve recurring savings for taxpayers, the Executive Budget recommends the closure of two prisons – Bayview in Manhattan and Beacon in Dutchess County. The closures are expected to reduce bed capacity by more than 432, and will save $18.7 million in 2013-14 and $62.1 million in 2014-15. Closure of the facilities will impact 273 employment positions, all of which can be absorbed in the current system.</p><br />
<P>· Improve the Workforce Development System: The state's current workforce development system fails to train individuals to fill existing job openings, and is not equipped to prepare New Yorkers for the jobs that will be in demand over the next five to ten years. State agencies will adopt consistent and high performance standards for workforce training and development, in conjunction with and certified by the State Department of Labor.</p><br />
<P>· Improve Services to Veterans: The Executive Budget enables the New York Employment Services System to be expanded to serve as a centralized statewide case management system for services to veterans, funded through a federal grant.</p><br />
<P>· Government Consolidation and Mergers: The Executive Budget provides for a series of consolidations and mergers to make government more efficient and save taxpayer dollars:</p><br />
<P>o Consolidate all of the state’s Medicaid administration activities into the Department of Health</p><br />
<P>o Transfer the Homeless Housing Assistance Program – which finances construction of housing units for homeless individuals – from the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance to Homes and Community Renewal to give affordable housing developers a single point of contact and oversight</p><br />
<P>o Merge the Office of the Welfare Inspector General into the Office of the Inspector General.</p><br />
<P>o Merge the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations with the Department of Civil Service to create a single State Employee Workforce Development Center</p><br />
<P>o Coordinate and consolidate public health and environmental labs functions which are currently operated by five agencies.</p><br />
<P>o The Department of Health and the Department of Civil Service will adopt a common strategy for purchasing health insurance and medical services that could save taxpayers $50 million annually.</p><br />
<P>o Consolidate disparate state agency print facilities into designated anchor facilities, based on proximity and common printing capability. This will reduce the number of print shops by 63 percent (from 24 to 9), and improve services and consistency while saving taxpayer dollars.</p><br />
<P>o Consolidate warehouse functions, beginning with new policies to ensure a sound and reliable inventory system.</p><br />
<P><EM><SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">Mandate Relief and Local Government Aid</span></em></p><br />
<P>Building on the significant mandate relief enacted in 2012-13, the Executive Budget provides local government officials with additional tools to manage their finances in a responsible manner. The 2013-14 Budget contains several new proposals to continue to assist localities during this difficult economic period.</p><br />
<P>· Stable Rate Pension Contribution Option: With Tier VI in place, there is now an opportunity to adopt an alternate pension funding mechanism – a Stable Rate Pension Contribution Option to allow local governments and school districts to lock in long-term, stable rate pension contributions for a period of years that would dramatically reduce near-term payments but still achieve full funding in each system over the long-term. These immediate and significant savings will provide immediate access to the savings of Tier VI and offer local governments and school districts needed relief, improving their ability to maintain necessary services to their residents and students. Local governments who opt in would avoid significant volatility in contribution rates and be better able to plan for the future. The option is voluntary and requires approval from the Comptroller's office.</p><br />
<P>· Local Sales Tax Rate Renewals: The Executive Budget allows counties to renew their existing sales tax authority without action by the State Legislature. The current process creates unpredictability that makes it difficult for local officials to manage their budgets. Any proposed rate increase would continue to require State Legislative approval.</p><br />
<P>· Unnecessary Reporting Requirements: All local government and school district reporting requirements would be eliminated on April 1, 2014 unless the Mandate Relief Council approves continuing them. This will place the burden of proof on state agencies and authorities to justify continuing a report.</p><br />
<P>· Reform Early Intervention Program: The Executive Budget recommends a series of modifications to the Early Intervention Program that will expand insurance coverage and streamline eligibility determinations, without impacting services, to provide significant fiscal and administrative mandate relief to counties and generate savings totaling more than $60 million over five years.</p><br />
<P>· Enhance General Public Health Work Program: The General Public Health Work program provides state aid reimbursement to Local Health Departments for a core set of public health services. Reforms associated with the first major overhaul of this program since its enactment will promote state health priorities, incentivize performance, and provide administrative relief to counties. The Budget will achieve $3.5 million in savings in 2014-15 and provide mandate relief for local governments of more than $16 million over five years.</p><br />
<P>· Reforms to Preschool Special Education: To increase the incentive for local governments to find and recover fraudulent and inappropriate spending by providers, counties and New York City would be allowed to keep 75 percent of all recoveries from local audits, nearly double the 40.5 percent that they are currently allowed to retain. In addition, New York City will be given the authority to establish rates with approved Preschool Special Education providers.</p><br />
<P>· School District Mandate Relief: As recommended by the Mandate Relief Council, the Executive Budget will create a new waiver process which will allow school districts to petition the State Education Department for flexibility in special education requirements. In addition, the burdensome requirement of maintaining an internal auditor for school districts with fewer than 1,000 students will be eliminated. Parental input will be included as part of the waiver process.</p><br />
<P>· Local Government Assistance: Consistent with 2012-13, the Executive Budget would maintain $715 million in unrestricted aid (AIM) to cities, towns and villages. In addition, funding for a series of local government efficiency and citizen empowerment programs will be extended.</p><br />
<P><SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline"><EM>Sandy Relief</em></span></p><br />
<P>The Executive Budget provides support for Superstorm Sandy recovery and rebuilding projects, programs, and other initiatives. Specifically, the Budget includes appropriations of $21 billion for disaster-related recovery, rebuilding and mitigation. An estimated $30 billion of Federal aid will flow through these appropriations or be directly administered by the Federal government, local governments and other entities.</p><br />
<P>· Community Reconstruction and Mitigation Plans: Communities that were hit hard by Superstorm Sandy, Superstorm Irene and Tropical Storm Lee will be eligible for rebuilding and mitigation grants.</p><br />
<P>· The Recreate NY Smart Home and Recreate NY Home Buy-Out Programs: The programs will ensure that New York rebuilds to modern building standards and, in locations where rebuilding is impractical, provide a voluntary home buyout alternative.</p><br />
<P>· Rebuilding and Hardening of Critical Infrastructure: Investments will be made in the areas of transportation, fuel supply, water supply, wastewater treatment systems, and electric distribution and flood protection systems.</p><br />
<P>· Repair and Build Natural Infrastructure to Protect Coastal Communities: Address the need to restore damaged beaches, dunes, and berms, and build new natural infrastructure including wetlands, reefs, dunes, and berms to reduce the impact of wave action, storm surges, and sea level rise.</p><br />
<P>· Restore Healthcare Facilities: Improvements will be made at hospitals, nursing homes and clinics to ensure these critical facilities are more resilient to future storms.</p><br />
<P>· Universal Protocols for Emergency Response: To improve coordination among state and local emergency response professionals, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will collaborate with SUNY to develop a training program which covers incident command, response, recovery, and state emergency protocols.</p><br />
<P>· A New Resilient Information System: Existing mobile messaging and social networking technologies will be leveraged to integrate disaster planning, preparedness and response. This will include “NY-TEXT”, a program to allow mass text messages to be sent to all wireless phones in a chosen area.</p><br />
<P>· Specialized Training for National Guard Members: Training will be provided in key emergency response categories such as power restoration, search and rescue, heavy equipment operation, and crowd management. During Sandy, more than 4,500 Guard members provided relief and accelerated the recovery. With additional training and skills, these Guard members can have an even greater impact when responding to disasters.</p><br />
<P>· Pre-positioned Stockpiles of Essential Equipment: Critical equipment such as generators, water tankers, chainsaws, piping, light towers, and pumps will be purchased and pre-positioned in anticipation of the next emergency.</p><br />
<P>· A Statewide Volunteer Network: Establishment of a network if individuals, non-profit organizations and corporations will help the state meet critical needs in disaster relief efforts by matching volunteers with opportunities to assist.</p><br />
<P>· A Citizen Education Campaign: This program will better prepare New Yorkers by providing information, resources and supplies, reducing the number of families in need during a disaster and allowing first responders to focus greater attention on those who are most vulnerable.</p><br />
<P>· Establishment of Vulnerable Population Databases: First responders, outreach workers, and healthcare and human services personnel will have access to information to help find and serve those who may need assistance.</p><br />
<P>· Energy Sector Worker Training: This new program will ensure availability of skilled professionals to quickly diagnose and replace damaged components and maintain a state of good repair.</p><br />
<P>· Design-Build for Sandy Relief: The Executive Budget also authorizes Design-Build – a proven way to reduce costs and speed completion – for agencies that will implement disaster recovery projects.</p><br />
<P>· Strengthening the Public Service Commission: The Budget implements the Moreland Act Commission recommendations to strengthen the oversight and enforcement mechanisms of the Public Service Commission to ensure public utility companies are held accountable and responsive to regulators and customers.</p><br />
<P>· Implement Community Focused Plans: Counties affected by Sandy, Irene and Lee eligible</p><br />
<P><EM><SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">Education</span></em></p><br />
<P>The 2013-14 Executive Budget reflects a continued commitment to supporting improved student outcomes, sustainable cost growth, and equitable distribution of aid. It builds on the foundational work of prior years, and begins the implementation of key recommendations of the New NY Education Reform Commission. The total year-to-year increase in aid for education is $889 million, or 4.4 percent.</p><br />
<P>· Full-Day Pre-kindergarten Program: The Executive Budget provides $25 million to support a full-day pre-kindergarten program targeted toward higher need students in lower wealth school districts via a competitive process.</p><br />
<P>· Extended Learning Time: In order to provide increased learning opportunities, $20 million will be prioritized to support high-quality extended school day or extended school year programs, with academically enriched programming. Schools that apply to participate in the program must agree to expand learning time by 25 percent. The grant will cover the full cost of expanding learning time for students.</p><br />
<P>· Community Schools: The Executive Budget supports an innovative program designed to transform schools into community hubs that integrate social, health and other services, as well as after-school programming to support students and their families.</p><br />
<P>· Reward High-Performing Teachers: The Executive Budget provides $11 million to offer $15,000 in annual stipends for four years to the most effective teachers, beginning with math and science teachers.</p><br />
<P>· Early College High School Programs: The Executive Budget provides $4 million in new state funding, bringing the state’s total investment in Early College High School programs to $6 million, to improve college access and success.</p><br />
<P>· Bar Exam for Teachers: To ensure the best and brightest are teaching our children, the State Education Department will increase the standards for teacher certification to require passage of a “bar exam,” in addition to longer, more intensive and high-quality student-teaching experience in a school setting.</p><br />
<P>· Target School Aid Increases to High-Need School Districts: The Executive Budget provides a $611 million increase in School Aid. High-need school districts will receive 75 percent of the 2013-14 allocated increase and 69 percent of total School Aid. The aid includes $272 million for general support, $289 million for increased reimbursement in expense-based aid programs, and $50 million for a new round of competitive grants.</p><br />
<P>· Provide Fiscal Stabilization Funding for School Districts in the 2013-14 School Year: In recognition of extraordinary increases in fixed costs, including pension contributions, the Executive Budget provides $203 million in one-time financial relief to school districts.</p><br />
<P>· Maintain the Commitment to Teacher Evaluation Reform: The Executive Budget will continue to link increases in State Aid to compliance with the teacher evaluation system to ensure implementation and accountability for improving student performance. School districts will not be eligible for aid increases unless they have fully implemented the teacher evaluation process for the 2013-14 school year by September 1, 2013.</p><br />
<P><EM><SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">Program Overview</span></em></p><br />
<P>Environment and Energy: The Executive Budget increases support for critical environmental protection and energy programs. The Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) will be increased by $19 million to $153 million. The Cleaner, Greener Communities program, administered by NYSERDA to fund energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, will be supplemented by a net $10 million in new state funding. To address a backlog of environmental capital needs, the Budget includes $135 million of new funding for DEC, OPRHP, the Department of Agriculture and Markets, and the Olympic Regional Development Authority under the NY Works program. In addition, the Budget provides the financial platform to implement the Moreland Commission recommendations that will strengthen the oversight and enforcement mechanisms of the Public Service Commission.</p><br />
<P>Health Care: The Executive Budget maintains the Medicaid spending cap enacted in 2011-12 and recommends funding consistent with its provisions. The Budget achieves $125.3 million in savings from public health and aging programs through program reforms, enterprise-wide efficiency measures, and general cost-control efforts in public health and aging programs. In addition, the Executive Budget continues the state's implementation of the New York Health Benefit Exchange that will serve as a centralized marketplace for the purchase and sale of health insurance, in accordance with the Affordable Care Act.</p><br />
<P>Higher Education: To ensure New York's students are prepared for the jobs of today and tomorrow, the Executive Budget changes the approach to funding community college workforce and vocational programs. Instead of funding based solely on enrollment, in order to receive State support for these programs, community colleges will be expected to partner with local employers and the Regional Economic Development Councils to identify job training needs. In addition, the Budget provides new funding to community colleges based on performance in measures of student success, including job placement.</p><br />
<P>Human Services: The Executive Budget provides core supportive services for needy populations and expands upon the 2012-13 Close to Home initiative for youth from outside of New York City to be placed in facilities closer to their home communities. The Executive Budget authorizes the state to undertake up to $100 million over the next five years for “Pay for Success” initiatives, also known as Social Impact Bonds. The program will attract private funding for preventative programming with repayment to investors made only if performance standards are achieved and savings exceed program costs.</p><br />
<P>Mental Hygiene: Proposed actions for the Mental Hygiene agencies include reforming and restructuring state and local programs and administrative practices, establishing regional centers of excellence for state-operated inpatient psychiatric facilities, enhancing community mental health services, utilizing less costly and more effective in-state community residences, placing aggressive cost controls on agency operations, and maximizing payments from third-party payers. The Executive Budget invests $10 million to ensure that individuals receiving court-ordered services and those being discharged from State psychiatric hospitals have access to services in the community to ensure continuity of care.</p><br />
<P>Public Safety: The Executive Budget helps to implement the NY SAFE Act, including creating a database for gun permits to allow the state to identify those with a firearms license who no longer legally qualify to possess a firearm. The Budget proposes that an existing $11.4 million in funding for Alternatives to Incarceration be restructured as a competitive grant program targeting the highest risk offenders. The Budget includes legislation to reform the traffic adjudication process will help improve public safety and help reduce the loss of $58 million annually in state revenue that is caused by the existing process.</p><br />
<P>Revenue Action and Tax Reform: There are no new taxes or fees in the Executive Budget. The Budget proposes to strengthen the state’s already robust tax enforcement efforts to ensure all individuals pay their fair share. These provisions, as well as the extension of existing revenue sources, would generate an additional $403 million in collections on an All Funds basis.</p><br />
<P>Transportation: The Executive Budget includes $300 million of new transportation capital funding under the NY Works program. In addition, the Budget provides operating support totaling $4.7 billion to mass transit systems. The MTA will receive over $4.2 billion, an increase of more than $358 million from 2012-13, and other transit systems will receive over $454 million, which reflects an increase of $23.5 million. The Budget includes $307 million in General Fund support for the MTA to fully offset the revenue impact of the reform of the MTA payroll tax that the Governor signed into law in 2011. The Executive Budget includes approximately $85 million in funding assistance for the Thruway Authority, including the state takeover of costs of the Division of State Police Troop T, that helped eliminate the need for a substantial commercial toll increase.</p>
<fieldset class="fieldgroup group-related-information"><legend>Related information</legend><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-senator">
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<a href="/senator/velmanette-montgomery">Velmanette Montgomery</a> </div>
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<span class="date-display-single">Wed, 01/23/2013</span> </div>
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